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Wizards eye No. 1 AJ Dybantsa, trade rumors swirl

5/14/2026

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Summary

Wizards Eye Dybantsa

The Washington Wizards hold the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft and are expected to select AJ Dybantsa.
A scout told CBS Sports that Dybantsa going to Washington at No. 1 is “absolutely not” certain.
Jazz owner Ryan Smith said everything should be on the table about possibly trading up for Dybantsa.
Dybantsa indicated a preference to stay in Utah after two years at Utah Prep and BYU.

Summary

Dybantsa Sets Vertical

AJ Dybantsa recorded a 42-inch vertical, the highest at this year’s NBA Draft Combine.
He measured 6’8.5´´ barefoot, weighed 217 lb, with a 7-0.5´´ wingspan and 8-10´´ standing reach.
After missing his first four three-point shots, Dybantsa ended the drill 8-15, making five of his last six attempts.
He said he wants more versatility, speed, higher jumps and better three-point shooting.
Analysts liken his build to that of a young Paul George.

History

Historical Context

Kevin Garnett’s 1995 decision to skip college and become the first high-school player drafted since 1975—selected fifth overall in the June 28, 1995 draft held in Toronto—proved that teenagers could impact the NBA immediately. That precedent fuels today’s Washington Wizards, who hold the No. 1 pick and are weighing high-school phenom AJ Dybantsa, prompting teams to gamble on youthful talent.

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Wizards Eye Dybantsa

The Washington Wizards hold the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft and are expected to select AJ Dybantsa.
A scout told CBS Sports that Dybantsa going to Washington at No. 1 is “absolutely not” certain.
Jazz owner Ryan Smith said everything should be on the table about possibly trading up for Dybantsa.
Dybantsa indicated a preference to stay in Utah after two years at Utah Prep and BYU.

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